Watches

BACKES & Strauss, the world’s oldest diamond company established in the 18th century, have marked Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth’s II 90th birthday with a creation of two unique pieces. The diamond masters are now a part of the Franck Muller Group who are the leaders in timepiece making and this union resulted in the creation of watches of supreme quality.

The Princess Elizabeth by Backes & Strauss

One of the intricate designs crafted by the most talented experts of both companies is The Princess Elizabeth. The timepiece boasts a unique dial featuring Princess Elizabeth’s youthful profile and a XC at twelve o’clock.

The dial is distinguished by having been hand – engraved by Backes & Strauss’ master engraved and then enamelled with the use of English Blythe enamel and Grand Feu technique – a process which requires application of several layers under strictly controlled high temperature to achieve the royal purple hue.

The second piece celebrating the royal anniversary has been named The Queen Elizabeth and will be unveiled at a special event in October held in Japan.

EVERY spring the worlds of fine watchmaking and high jewellery come together for the World Watch and Jewellery Show in Basel, which took place last month, to see the latest design creations from the top international luxury watchmakers and brands. While it seems like every luxury brand is vying to become a high jewellery watchmaker, few brands are able to produce truly sumptuous designs that really stand out.

One exception to this is Chanel Horlogerie, the watchmaking part of the luxury house. In spite of not being a historically technical watchmaker, Chanel has brought forth some interesting creations, partially due to a unique partnership with the Lesage workshops, a legendary French embroidery house.

Chanel J12 soft rose watch 33mm

At Baselworld, Chanel unveiled the new Mademoiselle Privé Embroidered Collection by Maison Lesage. This collection marks the brand’s 12th consecutive appearance at the World Watch and Jewellery Show. The Mademoiselle Privé Embroidered Collection is exceptional because of its delicately embroidered dials, created by hand by artisans from the Lesage workshop. Each design is meticulously crafted from diamonds, fine pearls, sequins and gold thread, naturally inspired by the creative vision of Gabrielle Chanel.

Eternelles de Chanel high jewelry comete secret watch (open) presented at Baselworld in March 2015

During the exhibition, Chanel Horlogerie also included new additions to other watch lines, including the Premiere, J12 and high jewellery L’Éternelles de Chanel collections.